In order for the league to salvage a 48-game schedule and finish the Stanley Cup finals by June 30, the season must start on or near Jan. 20. That means the NHL and the NHL Players Association must agree to a collective bargaining agreement by Jan. 10, give or take a day or two.

But, instead of negotiating, the sides are embroiled in a bunch of legal proceedings.

In a preemptive strike, the NHL last Friday responded by filing a class action complaint in federal court in New York seeking a declaration confirming the ongoing legality of the lockout. The league also filed an unfair labor practice charge with the national labor relations board.

All games have been canceled through Dec. 30 and another block of cancellations could be announced as early as Friday.

Meanwhile, several Detroit Red Wings continue to skate three times a week at a local rink to make sure they're prepared in case of a settlement, or in some cases, to prepare to head to Europe in case the season is canceled.